Collegiate Times

timothy 7

This fall, Virginia Tech will celebrate the life and work of American novelist, editor and professor Toni Morrison.

Morrison has written several award-winning novels, children’s books and plays, and she has been gaining awards for her work for over three decades. She will be welcomed alongside other greats including Maya Angelou, Joanne Gabbin and many others — including Tech’s own poet and professor, Nikki Giovanni.  

The event will be held on Tuesday, October 16, in the Burruss Hall auditorium from 7-9 p.m., with doors opening at 6 p.m. Morrison will speak alongside other noted writers, musical acts, political speakers and university officials.

Tickets are free, but because the turnout is expected to be quite high, they will be required for admittance.

Tickets are available starting September 10, and will be available through the Student Center and Activities Ticket Office in Squires. A reception will precede the event in Pamplin Hall from 5-6 p.m., where Morrison and Angelou will be presented with a lifetime achievement award. This event is open to the public, and no ticket is required. 

“Morrison's work is inspiring, brave, and memorable. I am looking forward to hearing her speak this semester,” said Molly Wagner, a senior marketing major.

Other notable speakers include Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and United States Poet Laureate (1993-1995) Rita Dove. Dove was also the Poet Laureate of Virginia from 2004-2006. Tech President Charles Steger is also expected to speak in celebration of Morrison’s life and work at the event.

A version of this article appeared in the Sep 7 issue of the Collegiate Times.